A $1 million pledge from the Bowen family to Ivy Tech Community College is set to transform the Indianapolis campus, funding a new, dedicated suite for the Bowen Scholars Program and support the Ivy Tech Indy: Reimagined for the Future renovations.
The Indianapolis program, which the Bowens themselves have called the "gold standard," has grown significantly under director Lara Behr's leadership. When she started in 2023, the Indianapolis cohort had 30 students. Just three years later, it stands at 60, making it the largest Bowen Scholars program in the state with a waitlist and alternates ready to fill any openings.
"The Bowens' generosity is not just monetary—it is their involvement," Behr said in gratitude to the Bowen family, in particular Robert L. Bowen, founder and CEO of Bowen Engineering, and his wife, Terry. "There's a real purpose, a real meaning to that generosity."
Currently, Bowen Scholars share a lab space with other programs, including Nina Scholars and the Ignite program. The new suite will give them a dedicated home featuring study areas, a food pantry, a lounge, and office space. Scholars already receive a $1,250 living allowance each semester, totaling $2,500 annually, to help cover expenses beyond tuition. The new space will add even more resources, including dedicated tutoring and career services, giving students a true "home away from home" on campus.
"This program is so very special," Behr said. "It's because of the Bowens, but also because of the incredible students who are part of it. It is the students who have made this such a great space."
The gift also reflects the Bowens' deep, personal investment in the program. Terry, a founding member of Ivy Tech's Circle of Ivy and former board member, along with her husband Bob, have been hands-on from the start, even recruiting students they encounter in daily life. One expansion-cohort student came to the program after Terry suggested she apply.
"They're just the nicest of people,” Behr said of the Bowens. “There's nothing like the program they started. I tell everybody ‘I love my job.’ I'm so lucky to be part of this program because it is so very special."
The Bowen Scholars Program began in 2009 as a scholarship but evolved into a comprehensive student-support model in 2011. Today, it includes monthly meetings focused on financial literacy, academic skills, time management, and social connection; all critical supports for the many first-generation college students in the cohort.
"We are so grateful for the Bowens' continued partnership and belief in our students," Behr added. "This gift will transform what we can offer, and we can't wait to share more details as the project takes shape."
The college extends its deepest gratitude to the Bowen family for their generosity and unwavering commitment to student success. More details about the new suite's location and timeline will be shared in the coming months.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public post-secondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system. Ivy Tech serves more than 200,000 students annually and offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training in more than 70 programs across Indiana. The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is committed to providing affordable, high-quality education aligned with the needs of Indiana’s workforce.
